Prime Minister’s visit to Indonesia, Australia and New Zealand

Why in news

Prime Minister undertook visits to Indonesia, Australia, and New Zealand to strengthen bilateral ties, discuss strategic partnerships, and engage with business leaders and the Indian diaspora.

Exam relevance

GS2, GS1 · International Relations, Governance, History & Culture · Prelims · Mains

Key facts

1. Prime Minister visited Indonesia, Australia, and New Zealand.
2. The visit to Indonesia was at the invitation of President Prabowo Subianto.
3. This was the Prime Minister's fourth visit to Indonesia and first bilateral visit since the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership was established in May 2018.
4. In Indonesia, discussions were held with President Prabowo to review partnership progress.
5. The Prime Minister addressed the Indian Diaspora in Jakarta and visited the Prambanan Temple complex in Yogyakarta.
6. The visit to Australia was at the invitation of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
7. In Australia, bilateral discussions were held with Prime Minister Albanese and a call on Governor General Ms Sam Mostyn.
8. The Prime Minister participated in the India-Australia CEOs Forum in Melbourne.

Prelims pointers

• India-Indonesia ties elevated to Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in May 2018.
• Prambanan Temple is a UNESCO world heritage site in Indonesia.
• The Prime Minister of Australia is Anthony Albanese.
• The Governor General of Australia is Ms Sam Mostyn AC.

Mains practice question

Examine the significance of the Prime Minister's recent visits to Indonesia and Australia in the context of India's foreign policy objectives and its strategic engagement in the Indo-Pacific region.

Static linkage

The visits highlight India's foreign policy objectives, particularly its engagement with the Indo-Pacific region, and the deepening of strategic partnerships with key nations like Indonesia and Australia. It also underscores the importance of people-to-people ties and cultural diplomacy, as evidenced by the visit to Prambanan Temple.

Significance

The visits are significant for strengthening India's diplomatic and economic relationships with Indonesia and Australia. They provide a platform to discuss strategic issues, enhance trade and investment through forums like the India-Australia CEOs Forum, and reinforce cultural connections with the Indian diaspora and heritage sites. These engagements are crucial for India's Act East Policy and its broader Indo-Pacific strategy.